Why Rye? This assertively flavorful grain is more often associated with whiskey than with ales. Even in that arena, it has largely been eclipsed by corn and barley, the sources of bourbon and scotch. But when we procured some seasoned barrels from our friends at Templeton Rye, we asked ourselves, “Why not?” Why not brew a rich, tawny rye ale, then mellow it in the warmth of charred oak rye whiskey casks? Two kinds of malted rye provide spicy sweetness, giving way to notes of caramelized wood and the citrusy tang of Perle, Magnum, and Saphir hops before easing into a dry, lingering finish.

This is definitely a niche market beer. It came highly recommended by the shop owner and I was attracted by the high ABV and the whiskey barrel aging process. Obviously, it is not chugging beer. It is brewed to enjoy slowly in an easy chair along with good company and stimulating conversation. I have to say though, that I didn't enjoy it as I though I would. I can't blame the beer... it was exactly as advertised. But as it turned out, I just didn't like the blended tastes. In the future, when I want rye whiskey I will drink rye whiskey and when I crave a brew, I will have a beer. With that said, its a distinctive and unique tasting beer that is worth a try by true beer aficionados.

S: Some bourbon and a bit of spice. Something is a bit off, but I can't pick out what it is.

T: Bourbon, rye, and maybe a bit of cardboard; at the same time, it doesn't taste like there's anything particularly wrong with it. Don't think it was a brewing/packaging issues; there's just something my palate doesn't agree with.

M: Dry and a bit hot.

D: Something just not right all around here. Usually a fan of Boulevard's bigger beers, but can't get into this one.

A= pours a hazy brown color. pretty much straight brown. A little amber maybe but easily the most brown colored beer I've ever had. The head is a beautiful two fingers holding excellent retention and lacing. The head is a nice off white color.

S= Initially I smell a lot of spicy Belgian yeast to it. Sort of the green apple spice thing and pear going on. There is a strong alcohol presence in the smell as well as a little whiskey. There is a little bit of rye in it but not as much as I expected.

T= This is unique for sure. Again I get a nice Belgian yeast spice to it up front with some green apple pear flavors. Then that washes away and I get some rye. I think rye is a delicate malt and prolly shouldn't be imperialized. This is really light on the rye flavor. The major flavor is whiskey I would say. There is a little oakyness and wood to it but not much. All is sort of shadowed by the alcohol heat. Interesting but not the best rye beer I've had by far.

M= A little high in carbonation and prickly tingly bubbles. Somewhat thin.

D= This is a different beer for sure but a little too boozy and not nearly rye- ey enough. The rye is not very pronounced. An underwhelming beer indeed.